This delay has raised several pertinent questions about the ongoing withdrawal process, and how it will affect employers, training providers and apprentices operating within these frameworks. Following correspondence on the topic we have put together the following FAQ to outline how this postponement will affect you.

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Are frameworks in earlier batches still being withdrawn?

Frameworks previously announced in the earlier batches (1-3) that have either already been withdrawn, or frameworks that have already received a published, confirmed delayed withdrawal date will be withdrawn as previously specified.

Which SASE frameworks have already been withdrawn?

The following frameworks within our footprint have all been withdrawn, with the last possible new starts for each framework being no later than 30th September 2017.

Framework Name

Level

Withdrawal Date

Building Products Industry Occupations

2

01/06/2016

Campaigning

3

01/06/2016

Energy Assessment & Advice

3

01/06/2016

Volunteer Management

3

01/12/2016

Enterprise

3

01/12/2016

Public Relations

4

01/12/2016

Business Innovation & Growth

5

01/12/2016

Fundraising

3

01/12/2016

Contact Centre Operations Management

4

01/12/2016

Local Taxation & Benefits

3

01/12/2016

Electrotechnical

3

30/09/2017

Housing

2, 3

30/09/2017

Surveying

3

30/09/2017

Will there be any further SASE framework closures before 2020?

It is our understanding that the Government will not withdraw any further English apprenticeship frameworks until 2020. This includes all frameworks in batches 4 and 5 that had previously been scheduled for earlier withdrawal, and any frameworks that have not yet been scheduled for withdrawal at all.

The actual date in 2020 at which the next set of frameworks will close is still to be confirmed.

Will Instructus Skills withdraw any SASE frameworks before 2020?

As previously communicated, at this point we have no plans to withdraw any of our frameworks ahead of the official framework withdrawal in 2020. However, we always welcome feedback from employers, training providers and awarding organisations about your needs.

If you would like to discuss frameworks or any of our services in more detail, please contact us.

Can we still transition to the replacement standard as planned?

The Education and Skills Funding Agency (ESFA) has suggested that issuing authorities may still consider withdrawing these frameworks voluntarily, pending an adequate period of notice. They have advised that this notice period should be at least six months. Even in that instance, there will be no official Government withdrawal until 2020.

Instructus currently has no plans to withdraw any frameworks earlier that 2020, however we will listen and respond to our network of employers, training providers, awarding organisations and professional bodies.

Do the ESFA intend to review funding bands for frameworks due to this announcement?

The ESFA have stated that SASE framework funding bands are not being reviewed as a direct result of this announcement. However, we are aware that the Department for Education have just announced that they plan to review funding bands for standards in response to employer feedback.

It is not yet clear whether framework withdrawal will impact the differential levels of funding between frameworks and standards, but we will monitor developments and update this page accordingly.

Are you ready for EPA?

With frameworks moving to End Point Assessment (EPA) in England, it’s important to know how the new standards will affect you. As a registered EPAO, Instructus Skills can help.